Hello, readers!

Welcome back to Meet the Makers, a series that takes a playful, engaging approach to showcasing the personalities and expertise of sign pros while staying rooted in the signage industry.

This week, we feature Carl Breau, a Canadian engineer, president, and CEO of Nummax and Saimen—two leading companies driving innovation in the signage and technology sectors. Beyond his executive roles, Breau is managing partner at Cemondia Inc., an investment company based in Canada.

Fluent in several languages and a frequent university lecturer and speaker, Breau shares his expertise on management of technology and international entrepreneurship, blending a global perspective with local leadership. As an active member of the Sign Association of Canada and several regional associations, he’s dedicated to advancing the signage industry through innovation, collaboration, and education.

Here are his responses to our five offbeat questions.

What’s your sign superpower?

Many would say my superpower is language—being fluent in English, French, Mandarin, and German has allowed me to connect with clients and partners across cultures seamlessly. But beyond words, the true superpower of our company is turning imagination into reality. 

In digital signage, we give our customers and partners the freedom to “paint” with technology. Whether it’s a bold, creative vision or a hyper-functional display, our approach is simple: If you can imagine it, we can make it happen. Like a brush in an artist’s hand, our superpower is bringing ideas to life—effortlessly. 

What’s the most challenging project you’ve worked on?

One of our most demanding—and rewarding—projects was the Dynamite installation at Royalmount in Montreal, Que.: a large, award-winning high dynamic range (HDR) digital display blending flat and curved surfaces. 

The challenge? Delivering seamless uniformity in color and brightness across the entire structure while preserving ultra-HDR quality. Every step—from calibration to installation—tested the limits of our technology and teamwork.

What’s a favourite sign or sign system you’ve created?

If I had to pick one, it’s the Nike Flagship West Edmonton Mall (WEM) project—a massive installation featuring nearly 50 LED screens, which took home the Best of Canada’s Sign Industry Awards (BOCSIes) Digital Signage Project of the Year award in 2024. That one was a game-changer for us.

And we’re not slowing down. Just two weeks ago, we wrapped up another Dynamite screen at WEM, adding another milestone to our growing legacy there. It’s starting to feel like a pattern: after dominating Royalmount in Montreal last year, we’re now making our mark on West Edmonton Mall—one high-impact installation at a time. 

What makes me proudest? Seeing our work redefine retail spaces, blending cutting-edge tech with unforgettable brand experiences.

If signage could talk, what’s the funniest thing a sign has ever ‘said’ to you?

Early in my career as an engineer, I encountered a weather-sensitive LED display on Highway 20 between Montreal and Quebec City—one with a very “expressive” personality. 

On sweltering summer days, whenever temperatures climbed past 30°C, the screen would quietly shut down, as if saying, “I’m too hot for this!”. The issue? It was housed in a case on top of multiple large static LED displays, which turned the enclosure into an oven, overwhelming the electronics. 

Thankfully, our latest technology has since solved the problem. So these days, the screen stays silent (and awake). But back then? It was a memorable lesson in thermodynamics, ventilation, and listening to what your signs are trying to tell you!

What’s the one piece of signage advice you wish everyone knew?

At its core, the signage industry isn’t just about materials or technology—it’s about people and the relationships we build. 

Signage does more than display information; it shapes perceptions, tells stories, and evokes emotion. Whether it’s a brand’s public image, an advertisement, or an immersive experience, the most powerful work starts with human connection. 

Over the years, I’ve been privileged to collaborate with incredible peers, and one thing always stands out: the passion that fuels this industry. So, my advice? Think “people first.” Behind every great sign is a team that cares—about craft, about clients, and about the impact of a sign well made. 

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Here’s to the industry’s creative minds! See you next time.